Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: bucksbuoy on November 21, 2010, 04:36:24 pm

Title: Green cedar, douglas fir?
Post by: bucksbuoy on November 21, 2010, 04:36:24 pm

I was putzing around home depot today and I saw they had green cedar. Looked and smelled like red cedar to me. They also had douglas fir. Are either of these suitable bow woods? From what Ive gathered they both are very strong and very light and weather resistant. Anyone have experience with either of these?

Title: Re: Green cedar, douglas fir?
Post by: Pat B on November 21, 2010, 04:38:47 pm

Never heard of green cedar but doug fir makes great arrows!

Title: Re: Green cedar, douglas fir?
Post by: bucksbuoy on November 21, 2010, 05:22:04 pm

I found this site that gives a nice break down of wood densitys and elasticitys. Answered my own question here. Cedar and douglas fir are right there. Not the best bow wood but they will work.




http://www.csudh.edu/oliver/chemdata/woods.htm

Title: Re: Green cedar, douglas fir?
Post by: Parnell on November 22, 2010, 10:30:25 am

I think there was an example of a douglas fir bow shown in one of the bowyers bibles.  I want to say it was wide and flax fiber backed.  Can't say for sure right now though.  Green cedar?  Got me there. 

Title: Re: Green cedar, douglas fir?
Post by: bucksbuoy on November 22, 2010, 12:18:13 pm

Yep. Green cedar decking lumber at home depot. I stared at it for 5 minutes to make sure I wasnt losing it. Maybe that was just the brand name or a typo or something.

Title: Re: Green cedar, douglas fir?
Post by: Bevan R. on November 22, 2010, 02:37:12 pm

I saw a bow one time that was made from quarter sawn douglas fir. never shot it but it was a working bow. I would rather make shafting from it and make the bow out of something else.
Was the cedar treated? like the presure treated pine they sell? Never heard of 'green' ceder.